Original records documenting history, primary sources may exist as anything from letters to audiorecordings or artifacts. Researchers use such firsthand materials as government documents, diaries, or art to help us understand life as people were living it and to explain history within its context.
Understanding Primary Source Research:
Locating, evaluating, and using primary sources on the Web ALA Primary Sources
Original records documenting history, primary sources may exist as anything from letters to audiorecordings or artifacts. Researchers use such firsthand materials as government documents, diaries, or art to help us understand life as people were living it and to explain history within its context.
Understanding Primary Source Research:
Materials and Collections:
World Topics
Voices
Events
Maps and Images
Historical Cartoons